Buying a new home is an exciting milestone, but if it’s your first time navigating the process it can sometimes feel a little daunting. From choosing your home to finally receiving the keys, there are several stages involved.
At Stephen Homes, we aim to make the journey as smooth and straightforward as possible. Our team will guide you through each step of the process, so you know exactly what to expect along the way.
Once you’ve found the home that’s right for you, the first step is to reserve it.
Our sales team will talk you through the plot, development and the next steps involved in the purchase. When you’re ready, you can reserve your chosen plot by completing our reservation paperwork and paying a reservation fee.
At this stage, we’ll also confirm key details such as the anticipated build timeframe and any incentives or offers available on the plot.
Once your reservation fee is paid, you will be given a 30 day reservation period, ensuring your desired plot is taken off the market while the legal process is underway.
After reserving your home, you’ll need to appoint a solicitor to handle the legal aspects of the purchase.
Your solicitor will manage the legal documentation, liaise with the developer’s solicitor and carry out the necessary checks to ensure everything is in order before missives are exchanged. They will also guide you through the legal paperwork and keep you informed throughout the process.
If you’re purchasing your home with a mortgage, the next step is to confirm your mortgage arrangements with your lender or mortgage advisor.
Your lender will carry out affordability checks and arrange a valuation of the property before issuing a formal mortgage offer. Once this has been approved, your solicitor will be able to progress the purchase towards the next stage.
If you’re a first-time buyer, a mortgage advisor can also help you understand the options available and find the right product for your circumstances.
Exchange of missives is one of the most important milestones in the home buying process.
At this point, the legal agreements are finalised and both parties are formally committed to the purchase. Your solicitor will arrange for the missives to be exchanged with the developer’s solicitor once everything is in place.
Provided the completed missives are received by the developer’s solicitor within the 30 day reservation period, your reservation fee will be deducted from the purchase price of your home.
Following the exchange, an anticipated entry date will be confirmed and you can begin preparing for your move.
Now for the fun bit, when you’re invited to pick your choice of kitchen and bathroom finishes. We have a wide range of standard choices from kitchen units to wall tiles, meaning you can really put your stamp on your home.
Looking for something more bespoke? We can do that too! We also offer a range of optional extras, which can be yours for a little more.
As completion approaches, it’s time to start planning the practical side of your move.
This might include arranging a removal company, setting up utility accounts and organising any final paperwork required for the purchase. Our team will keep you updated throughout this stage so you know when your new home will be ready.
If your property is still under construction, we’ll also keep you informed of progress and anticipated entry dates.
Your completion date is when the purchase is finalised and ownership of the property officially transfers to you.
Before you move in, you’ll be contacted by a member of our sales team to confirm your entry date and arrange a mutually convenient time for your handover with the Site Manager and Sales Adviser. During your handover the Site Manager and Sales Advisor guide you through using appliances, heating systems, window and door locks, etc. They will also go over your Home Owner Manual and our Aftercare Process.
Once your solicitor confirms completion has taken place, you’ll be given your keys and can move into your new Stephen home.
This is the exciting moment when all the planning and preparation come together, and you can finally begin making your house feel like home.
Our commitment to our homeowners doesn’t end once you’ve moved in.
We’re proud to provide ongoing aftercare support to ensure you settle comfortably into your new home. If you have any questions after moving in, our aftercare team will be on hand to help and guide you.
Buying a home is one of the most important purchases you’ll ever make, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
If you’re considering a move or would like to find out more about our developments, our team would be delighted to help. For more information on what’s available today, please get in touch on 01738 620721 or by emailing sales@stephen.co.uk.
